Project Manager vs Customer Success Manager: Which Pays More?
Side-by-side salary comparison by city, experience level, and career growth outlook. Data reflects current market rates.
Project Manager
Plan, execute, and close projects on time and within budget.
Customer Success Manager
Ensure customers achieve their goals and maximise value from the product.
Customer Success Manager earns more on average — the national median is $13,216/year (13%) higher than a Project Manager. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
Project Manager vs Customer Success Manager — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Project Manager | Customer Success Manager | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $153,305 | $171,410 | Project $18,105 |
| New York, NY | $124,250 | $136,958 | Project $12,708 |
| Seattle, WA | $149,604 | $168,974 | Project $19,370 |
| Austin, TX | $112,715 | $127,948 | Project $15,233 |
| Chicago, IL | $109,133 | $125,949 | Project $16,816 |
| Boston, MA | $130,013 | $154,512 | Project $24,499 |
| London, UK | £74,138 | £88,196 | Project $14,058 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$135,689 | CA$152,022 | Project $16,333 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Project Manager or Customer Success Manager earn more?+
A Customer Success Manager earns more on average. The national median salary for a Project Manager is $102,320/year, compared to $115,536/year for a Customer Success Manager — a difference of $13,216 (13%).
Which has better career growth — Project Manager or Customer Success Manager?+
Project Manager roles are growing at 12% YoY while Customer Success Manager demand is growing at 22% YoY. Customer Success Manager has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from Project Manager to Customer Success Manager?+
Yes. Many professionals transition between these roles, especially since both are in the same category. Shared skills include: analytical thinking, communication, and industry knowledge.
Which is harder to automate — Project Manager or Customer Success Manager?+
Customer Success Manager has a lower AI automation risk (28% vs 32%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.